The present disclosure relates to a method for performing phosphorous-31 spectroscopic magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF). The method comprises performing a pulse sequence using a series of varied sequence blocks to a volume in a subject where the volume contains phosphate metabolites. A series of signal evolutions are acquired from the volume in the subject to form MRF data. The MRF data is then compared to simulated MRF signal to determine parameters associated with phosphate metabolites and the chemical exchange rates between these metabolites. These parameters and exchange rates can be used in diagnosing a metabolic disorder in a subject.
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1. A method for performing phosphorous spectroscopic magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) comprising: performing a pulse sequence using a series of varied sequence blocks to simultaneously produce different signal evolutions from different resonant species in a volume in a subject, wherein at least one member of the series of varied sequence blocks differs from at least one other member of the series of varied sequence blocks in at least N sequence block parameters, where N is an integer greater than one and wherein the different resonant species include one or more metabolites; acquiring MRF data as the series of different signal evolutions from different resonant species in the volume in the subject; determining parameters associated with phosphate metabolites and chemical exchange rates between these metabolites by comparing the MRF data to a simulated MRF signal; and identifying metabolic alterations in the subject based on the determined parameters.
Medical imaging, specifically magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The problem addressed is the need for improved methods to characterize and quantify phosphorous-containing metabolites and their dynamic interactions within biological tissues. This invention describes a method for phosphorous spectroscopic magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF). The core of the method involves executing a specific pulse sequence. This sequence is composed of a series of distinct blocks, where each block is varied in at least two (N > 1) sequence block parameters compared to other blocks in the series. These varied sequence blocks are designed to generate unique signal evolutions simultaneously from different phosphorous-containing resonant species, such as metabolites, within a specific volume of a subject. The method then proceeds to acquire MRF data, which captures these different signal evolutions. Following data acquisition, the method determines parameters related to phosphate metabolites and the rates of chemical exchange occurring between them. This determination is achieved by comparing the acquired MRF data against a simulated MRF signal. Finally, the method identifies metabolic alterations within the subject by analyzing these determined parameters.
2. The method of claim 1 wherein the metabolite parameter includes quantifying the concentration (M 0 ) of at least one of the one or more metabolites.
This invention relates to a method for analyzing metabolites in a biological sample to assess a physiological or pathological condition. The method involves measuring a metabolite parameter, specifically the concentration (M0) of one or more metabolites, to derive meaningful biological insights. The technique may include detecting and quantifying metabolites using analytical tools such as mass spectrometry, chromatography, or other biochemical assays. By determining the concentration of specific metabolites, the method enables the identification of biomarkers associated with diseases, metabolic disorders, or drug responses. The quantified metabolite data can be compared against reference values or used in computational models to diagnose conditions, monitor treatment efficacy, or predict disease progression. The method may also involve preprocessing the sample, such as extraction or purification, to enhance measurement accuracy. The focus on metabolite concentration (M0) allows for precise quantification, which is critical for clinical and research applications where metabolite levels directly correlate with physiological states. This approach supports personalized medicine by providing objective, data-driven assessments of metabolic health.
3. The method of claim 1 wherein the metabolite parameter includes quantifying a rate constant for at least one of the one or more metabolites.
This invention relates to a method for analyzing metabolites in a biological sample to determine a rate constant for at least one metabolite. The method addresses the challenge of accurately quantifying metabolic processes by measuring the dynamic behavior of metabolites over time, rather than just their static concentrations. This is particularly useful in fields like pharmacokinetics, disease diagnosis, and metabolic research, where understanding metabolic rates can provide deeper insights into biological pathways and drug responses. The method involves detecting one or more metabolites in a sample and then calculating a rate constant for each metabolite. The rate constant represents the speed at which a metabolite is produced, consumed, or converted in a biological system. By quantifying this parameter, the method enables precise tracking of metabolic flux, which is critical for assessing metabolic health, drug efficacy, or disease progression. The technique may involve spectroscopic, chromatographic, or mass spectrometric analysis to measure metabolite levels at different time points, followed by mathematical modeling to derive the rate constant. This approach improves upon prior methods by providing a more dynamic and quantitative assessment of metabolism, allowing for better interpretation of metabolic changes in response to treatments or physiological conditions. The method can be applied to various biological samples, including blood, tissue extracts, or cell cultures, making it versatile for different research and clinical applications.
4. The method of claim 3 wherein the rate constant includes a forward ATP rate constant (k f ATP ).
This invention relates to a method for modeling biochemical reaction kinetics, specifically focusing on the regulation of biochemical pathways involving adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The method addresses the challenge of accurately simulating dynamic biochemical processes where reaction rates are influenced by multiple factors, including ATP concentration and binding kinetics. The method involves determining a rate constant for a biochemical reaction, where the rate constant includes a forward ATP rate constant (kf ATP). This forward ATP rate constant quantifies the rate at which ATP binds to a target molecule or enzyme, facilitating the reaction. The method may also incorporate additional rate constants for other reactants or inhibitors, allowing for a comprehensive model of the reaction network. By integrating these rate constants, the method enables precise prediction of reaction rates under varying conditions, such as changes in ATP concentration or environmental factors. This approach is particularly useful in systems biology, drug development, and metabolic engineering, where understanding and controlling biochemical pathways is critical. The method may be applied to both in vitro and in vivo systems, providing insights into cellular metabolism and regulatory mechanisms. The inclusion of the forward ATP rate constant ensures that the model accurately reflects the role of ATP in driving biochemical reactions, improving the reliability of simulations and experimental designs.
5. The method of claim 1 wherein performing a pulse sequence using a series of varied sequence blocks includes using a constant repetition time (TR).
This invention relates to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques, specifically methods for optimizing pulse sequences to improve image quality and acquisition efficiency. The problem addressed is the need for more flexible and controlled MRI pulse sequences that can adapt to different imaging requirements while maintaining consistency in timing parameters. The method involves performing a pulse sequence composed of multiple varied sequence blocks, where each block represents a distinct set of radiofrequency (RF) pulses, gradients, and timing parameters. The key innovation is the use of a constant repetition time (TR) across the sequence blocks, ensuring uniform timing between successive excitations. This consistency in TR helps stabilize image artifacts, improve signal uniformity, and enhance the reliability of quantitative MRI measurements. The sequence blocks may include different configurations of RF pulses, such as excitation pulses, refocusing pulses, or spoiler gradients, tailored to specific imaging objectives like contrast enhancement, motion suppression, or fat suppression. By maintaining a constant TR while varying other parameters, the method allows for precise control over image contrast and resolution without introducing timing-related inconsistencies. This approach is particularly useful in advanced MRI techniques, such as functional MRI (fMRI), diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), and quantitative parameter mapping, where timing stability is critical for accurate data interpretation. The method can be applied to both clinical and research MRI systems to improve diagnostic accuracy and research reproducibility.
6. The method of claim 1 wherein using a series of varied sequence blocks includes using linearly ramped flip angles.
This invention relates to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques, specifically addressing the challenge of optimizing signal acquisition in MRI systems. The method involves using a series of varied sequence blocks to improve image quality or reduce scan time. A key aspect of this approach is the use of linearly ramped flip angles within these sequence blocks. The linearly ramped flip angles adjust the excitation of spins in the imaged volume, allowing for more controlled and efficient signal acquisition. This technique can enhance contrast, reduce artifacts, or improve the overall efficiency of the MRI scan. The varied sequence blocks may also include other adjustments, such as changes in timing, gradient strengths, or radiofrequency pulse shapes, to further optimize the imaging process. By systematically varying these parameters, the method aims to achieve better image resolution, faster scanning, or improved diagnostic accuracy in MRI applications. The use of linearly ramped flip angles ensures a gradual and controlled modulation of the excitation profile, which can help mitigate inconsistencies in signal intensity and improve the uniformity of the acquired images. This approach is particularly useful in clinical and research settings where high-quality MRI images are required.
7. The method of claim 1 wherein the simulated MRF signal includes signals correlated to at least one known metabolite parameter for the one or more metabolites.
This invention relates to magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) techniques, specifically improving the accuracy of metabolite quantification in biological tissues. The method involves generating a simulated MRF signal that includes signals correlated to at least one known metabolite parameter for one or more metabolites. This allows for more precise matching between simulated and acquired MRF signals, enhancing the detection and quantification of metabolites in tissue samples. The simulated MRF signal is designed to replicate the complex signal behavior observed in actual MRF acquisitions, incorporating known metabolite parameters such as concentration, relaxation times, and chemical shifts. By comparing the simulated signal with the acquired MRF data, the method improves the identification and measurement of metabolites, addressing challenges in traditional MRF techniques where metabolite signals may be weak or overlapping. The approach enables more reliable metabolic imaging, which is valuable in medical diagnostics, such as detecting metabolic disorders or monitoring treatment responses. The method can be applied in various MRF implementations, including those using different pulse sequences or acquisition protocols, to enhance metabolite-specific signal analysis.
8. The method of claim 1 wherein the one or more metabolites include phosphorus-31 ( 31 P).
This invention relates to a method for analyzing biological samples using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, specifically focusing on the detection and quantification of metabolites, including phosphorus-31 (31P). The method addresses the challenge of accurately identifying and measuring metabolites in complex biological samples, which is critical for applications in medical diagnostics, drug development, and metabolic research. The method involves preparing a biological sample, such as tissue, cells, or biofluids, for NMR analysis. The sample is subjected to NMR spectroscopy, which detects the magnetic properties of atomic nuclei in the presence of a magnetic field. The method specifically targets phosphorus-31 (31P) metabolites, which are important biomarkers for energy metabolism, membrane integrity, and cellular signaling. By analyzing the NMR signals, the method quantifies the concentration and chemical environment of these metabolites, providing insights into metabolic pathways and physiological states. The method may also include preprocessing steps, such as sample homogenization, extraction, or purification, to enhance the sensitivity and resolution of the NMR measurements. Additionally, the method may involve spectral analysis techniques, such as peak deconvolution or multivariate statistical analysis, to distinguish between overlapping signals and improve accuracy. The inclusion of phosphorus-31 (31P) detection allows for the study of high-energy phosphate compounds, such as ATP and phosphocreatine, which are key indicators of cellular energy status and metabolic disorders. This approach enables non-invasive, label-free metabolic profiling with high specificity and sensitivity.
9. The method of claim 8 wherein the one or more metabolites is selected from the group consisting of inorganic phosphate, phosphocreatine (PCr), adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate, and creatine.
This invention relates to a method for analyzing metabolites in biological samples, particularly focusing on compounds involved in energy metabolism. The method addresses the challenge of accurately detecting and quantifying key metabolic biomarkers, which are critical for diagnosing and monitoring metabolic disorders, muscle function, and cellular energy status. The technique involves measuring specific metabolites, including inorganic phosphate, phosphocreatine (PCr), adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate, and creatine, which play essential roles in energy transfer and cellular metabolism. These metabolites are detected using a combination of spectroscopic or analytical techniques, such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy or mass spectrometry, to provide precise and non-invasive measurements. The method may also include preprocessing steps to prepare the sample, such as extraction or purification, to enhance detection sensitivity and accuracy. By quantifying these metabolites, the method enables early detection of metabolic imbalances, assessment of muscle fatigue, and evaluation of therapeutic interventions. The approach is particularly useful in clinical, sports medicine, and research settings where real-time or high-throughput analysis of metabolic biomarkers is required. The invention improves upon existing methods by offering a more comprehensive and reliable analysis of key metabolic compounds, facilitating better diagnosis and treatment of metabolic disorders.
10. The method of claim 1 wherein the pulse sequence is a hyperbolic secant inversion pulse.
A method for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or spectroscopy involves using a hyperbolic secant inversion pulse sequence to manipulate nuclear spins in a sample. This technique is particularly useful in applications requiring precise control over spin inversion, such as in chemical shift imaging or quantitative MRI. The hyperbolic secant pulse is a type of adiabatic pulse that provides robust inversion of spins over a wide range of resonance offsets, making it less sensitive to variations in magnetic field homogeneity compared to conventional rectangular pulses. This is achieved by gradually varying the amplitude and frequency of the radiofrequency (RF) pulse in a specific hyperbolic secant waveform, ensuring that spins are inverted efficiently even in the presence of magnetic field inhomogeneities. The method may be applied in various MRI protocols, including T1 mapping, diffusion-weighted imaging, or metabolic imaging, where accurate spin inversion is critical for obtaining reliable quantitative measurements. The use of a hyperbolic secant pulse enhances the reliability and accuracy of MRI data by minimizing artifacts caused by B0 field inhomogeneities, thereby improving diagnostic confidence.
11. A method for performing phosphorous spectroscopic magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) comprising: performing a pulse sequence using a series of varied sequence blocks to a volume in a subject, the volume containing one or more metabolites; acquiring a series of signal evolutions from the volume in the subject to form MRF data; determining parameters associated with phosphate metabolites and chemical exchange rates between these metabolites by comparing the MRF data to simulated MRF signal; and identifying metabolic alterations in the subject based on the determined parameters; wherein the simulated MRF signal includes signals correlated to at least one known metabolite parameter for the one or more metabolites; and wherein the at least one known metabolite parameter includes chemical shift data and a range of longitudinal relaxation times (T 1 ).
This technical summary describes a method for performing phosphorous spectroscopic magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) to analyze metabolic alterations in a subject. The method addresses the challenge of accurately identifying and quantifying phosphate metabolites and their chemical exchange rates in biological tissues, which is crucial for diagnosing metabolic disorders and monitoring treatment responses. The method involves applying a pulse sequence with varied sequence blocks to a volume within a subject containing one or more metabolites. The sequence generates a series of signal evolutions from the volume, forming MRF data. This data is then compared to a simulated MRF signal to determine parameters associated with phosphate metabolites, including chemical shift data and longitudinal relaxation times (T1). The simulated signal incorporates known metabolite parameters for the metabolites of interest. By matching the acquired MRF data to the simulated signal, the method identifies metabolic alterations in the subject based on the derived parameters. The approach leverages the unique signal evolution patterns of different metabolites under varying pulse sequences, enabling precise quantification of metabolic changes. This technique enhances the diagnostic capabilities of MRF by providing detailed insights into phosphate metabolism, which is relevant for applications in oncology, neurology, and cardiology.
12. A method for performing phosphorous spectroscopic magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) comprising: performing a pulse sequence using a series of varied sequence blocks to a volume in a subject, the volume containing one or more metabolites; acquiring a series of signal evolutions from the volume in the subject to form MRF data; determining parameters associated with phosphate metabolites and chemical exchange rates between these metabolites by comparing the MRF data to simulated MRF signal; identifying metabolic alterations in the subject based on the determined parameters; and characterizing the one or more metabolites by assigning the MRF data associated with the one or more metabolites to at least one spectral bin.
This invention relates to a method for performing phosphorous spectroscopic magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) to analyze metabolic alterations in a subject. The method addresses the challenge of accurately identifying and quantifying phosphate metabolites and their chemical exchange rates in biological tissues, which is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring metabolic disorders. The method involves applying a pulse sequence with varied sequence blocks to a volume within a subject containing one or more metabolites. The sequence generates a series of signal evolutions from the volume, forming MRF data. This data is then compared to simulated MRF signals to determine parameters associated with phosphate metabolites and their chemical exchange rates. By analyzing these parameters, metabolic alterations in the subject can be identified. The method further characterizes the metabolites by assigning the MRF data to at least one spectral bin, enabling precise metabolic profiling. The approach leverages the unique signal evolution patterns of different metabolites under varying pulse sequences to enhance the specificity and sensitivity of metabolic detection. This technique improves upon traditional spectroscopic methods by providing a more comprehensive and accurate assessment of metabolic states, which is valuable in clinical and research applications.
13. A method for performing phosphorous spectroscopic magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) comprising: performing a pulse sequence using a series of varied sequence blocks to a volume in a subject, the volume containing one or more metabolites; acquiring a series of signal evolutions from the volume in the subject to form MRF data; determining parameters associated with phosphate metabolites and chemical exchange rates between these metabolites by comparing the MRF data to simulated MRF signal; identifying metabolic alterations in the subject based on the determined parameters; and wherein comparing the MRF data to the simulated MRF signal includes taking a dot product between the at least one known metabolite parameter in the simulated MRF signal and the MRF data in the at least one spectral bin.
This invention relates to phosphorous spectroscopic magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) for detecting metabolic alterations in a subject. The method addresses the challenge of accurately identifying and quantifying phosphate metabolites and their chemical exchange rates in biological tissues, which is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring metabolic disorders. The technique involves applying a pulse sequence with varied sequence blocks to a volume within a subject containing metabolites. The sequence generates a series of signal evolutions, which are acquired to form MRF data. This data is then compared to simulated MRF signals to determine parameters associated with phosphate metabolites and their exchange rates. The comparison process includes calculating a dot product between known metabolite parameters in the simulated signal and the MRF data within specific spectral bins. The method identifies metabolic alterations by analyzing these parameters, providing insights into biochemical processes. The approach leverages the unique signal evolution patterns of different metabolites under varying pulse sequences to enhance diagnostic accuracy. This technique improves upon traditional spectroscopic methods by offering a more comprehensive and efficient way to assess metabolic activity in vivo.
14. A method for performing phosphorous spectroscopic magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) comprising: performing a pulse sequence using a series of varied sequence blocks to a volume in a subject, the volume containing one or more metabolites; acquiring a series of signal evolutions from the volume in the subject to form MRF data; determining parameters associated with phosphate metabolites and chemical exchange rates between these metabolites by comparing the MRF data to simulated MRF signal; and identifying metabolic alterations in the subject based on the determined parameters; wherein identifying the metabolic alternations includes generating a matched fingerprint; and wherein the matched fingerprint is the highest dot product between the acquired MRF data and simulated MRF signal with predefined metabolite parameters.
This technical summary describes a method for performing phosphorous spectroscopic magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) to analyze metabolic alterations in a subject. The method addresses the challenge of accurately identifying and quantifying phosphate metabolites and their chemical exchange rates in biological tissues, which is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring metabolic disorders. The process begins by applying a pulse sequence with varied sequence blocks to a volume within a subject, where the volume contains one or more metabolites. The pulse sequence generates a series of signal evolutions from the volume, forming MRF data. This data is then compared to simulated MRF signals to determine parameters associated with phosphate metabolites and their chemical exchange rates. The comparison involves calculating the highest dot product between the acquired MRF data and the simulated signals, which generates a matched fingerprint. This fingerprint is used to identify metabolic alterations in the subject by analyzing deviations from predefined metabolite parameters. The method leverages the unique signal evolution patterns of different metabolites to distinguish between them and assess their concentrations and exchange dynamics. By matching experimental data to simulated signals, it provides a quantitative assessment of metabolic activity, enabling early detection of metabolic diseases or monitoring treatment responses. The approach improves upon traditional spectroscopic techniques by offering a more comprehensive and efficient analysis of metabolic states.
15. The method of claim 14 wherein the at least one metabolite parameter is T 1 .
This invention relates to a method for analyzing biological samples to determine metabolite parameters, specifically focusing on the longitudinal relaxation time constant (T1) of metabolites. The method involves using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to measure T1 values, which provide insights into molecular dynamics and metabolic states. The technique is particularly useful in medical diagnostics, where T1 measurements can indicate disease states or monitor treatment responses. The method includes preparing a biological sample, such as tissue or biofluid, and subjecting it to an MRS protocol designed to quantify T1 relaxation times. The system may incorporate calibration standards to ensure accuracy and may adjust parameters like magnetic field strength or pulse sequences to optimize measurement sensitivity. The invention also includes data processing steps to extract T1 values from raw spectroscopic data, which may involve signal averaging, noise filtering, and curve fitting. By analyzing T1 parameters, the method enables non-invasive assessment of metabolic activity, aiding in early disease detection or therapeutic monitoring. The approach is adaptable to various biological samples and can be integrated into clinical or research workflows.
17. A method for performing spectroscopic magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) comprising: performing a pulse sequence using a series of varied sequence blocks to simultaneously produce different signal evolutions from different resonant species in a volume in an object, the volume containing one or more metabolites; acquiring the simultaneously produced different signal evolutions from different resonant species to form MRF data, wherein the signal evolutions are positioned in a pass-band; characterizing the one or more metabolites by comparing one of the signal evolutions from the MRF data to a simulated MRF signal, wherein comparing including performing signal template matching to select a set of values from the simulated MRF signal that correspond to the signal evolution from the MRF data; and determining at least one metabolite parameter based at least in part on the selected set of values from the simulated MRF signal.
Spectroscopic magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) is a technique used to identify and quantify metabolites within a volume of an object, such as biological tissue. The challenge in conventional methods is accurately distinguishing and characterizing multiple metabolites due to overlapping signals and complex signal evolutions. This invention addresses this by using a pulse sequence with varied sequence blocks to simultaneously generate distinct signal evolutions from different resonant species in the volume. The method acquires these signal evolutions to form MRF data, ensuring the signals are positioned within a pass-band to optimize detection. The acquired data is then analyzed by comparing one of the signal evolutions to a simulated MRF signal through template matching. This process selects a set of values from the simulated signal that best match the observed data, allowing for the determination of at least one metabolite parameter. The approach improves metabolite characterization by leveraging the unique signal evolutions produced by the varied pulse sequence, enhancing the specificity and accuracy of the analysis.
18. The method of claim 17 wherein determining the at least one metabolite parameter for the one or more metabolites includes generating a matched fingerprint.
The invention relates to a method for analyzing metabolites in a biological sample to determine at least one metabolite parameter. The method addresses the challenge of accurately identifying and quantifying metabolites in complex biological samples, which is critical for applications such as disease diagnosis, drug development, and metabolic research. The method involves generating a matched fingerprint for one or more metabolites, which likely refers to a unique spectral or chemical signature that helps distinguish and quantify the metabolites. This fingerprinting process may involve comparing the sample's metabolic profile against a reference database or using advanced analytical techniques like mass spectrometry or nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The method may also include preprocessing the sample, such as extraction or separation, to enhance the accuracy of the metabolite analysis. By generating a matched fingerprint, the method aims to improve the specificity and sensitivity of metabolite detection, enabling more precise and reliable metabolic profiling. This approach is particularly useful in clinical and research settings where accurate metabolite identification is essential for understanding metabolic pathways and their implications in health and disease.
19. A method for performing spectroscopic magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) comprising: performing a pulse sequence using a series of varied sequence blocks to a volume in an object, the volume containing one or more metabolites; acquiring a series of signal evolutions from the volume in the object to form MRF data, wherein the signal evolutions are positioned in a pass-band; characterizing the one more metabolites by comparing the MRF data to simulated MRF signal; determining at least one metabolite parameter; and wherein positioning the signal evolution within the pass-band includes varying the carrier frequency and TR.
This invention relates to spectroscopic magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF), a technique used to identify and quantify metabolites in an object, such as biological tissue. The method addresses the challenge of accurately characterizing metabolites by leveraging MRF data acquired through a pulse sequence with varied sequence blocks. The pulse sequence is applied to a volume containing one or more metabolites, and the resulting signal evolutions are captured to form MRF data. These signal evolutions are positioned within a pass-band to enhance signal quality and reduce noise. The carrier frequency and repetition time (TR) are adjusted to ensure the signal evolutions fall within this pass-band. The acquired MRF data is then compared to simulated MRF signals to characterize the metabolites, allowing for the determination of at least one metabolite parameter, such as concentration or relaxation time. This approach improves the precision and reliability of metabolite quantification in MRF applications.
20. A system comprising: a magnet system configured to generate a polarizing magnetic field about at least a portion of a subject; a magnetic gradient system including a plurality of magnetic gradient coils configured to apply at least one magnetic gradient field to the polarizing magnetic field; a radio frequency (RF) system configured to apply an RF field to the subject and to receive magnetic resonance signals from the subject using a coil array; a computer system programmed to: control the magnetic gradient system and the RF system to perform a pulse sequence using a series of varied sequence blocks to elicit different signal evolutions from different resonant species in a volume in a subject containing one or more metabolites, wherein at least one member of the series of varied sequence blocks differs from at least one other member of the series of varied sequence blocks in at least N sequence block parameters, where N is an integer greater than one; and acquire a series of the signal evolutions from the volume to form MRF data, wherein the signal evolutions are positioned in a pass-band; characterize the one or more metabolites by comparing one of the signal evolutions from the MRF data to a simulated MRF signal wherein comparing including performing signal template matching to select a set of values from the simulated MRF signal that correspond to the signal evolution from the MRF data; and generate a report indicating at least the one or more metabolites.
This system relates to magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) for metabolite characterization in a subject. The technology addresses the challenge of accurately identifying and quantifying metabolites within a volume of tissue using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Traditional MRI methods often struggle with distinguishing between different resonant species due to overlapping signals and limited specificity. The system leverages MRF techniques to enhance metabolite detection by exploiting unique signal evolutions from different species. The system includes a magnet system generating a polarizing magnetic field around the subject, a magnetic gradient system with gradient coils applying gradient fields to the polarizing field, and an RF system applying RF fields and receiving MR signals via a coil array. A computer system controls the gradient and RF systems to execute a pulse sequence composed of varied sequence blocks. These blocks differ in at least two parameters (e.g., timing, amplitude, or phase) to elicit distinct signal evolutions from metabolites in the subject. The system acquires these evolutions to form MRF data, ensuring the signals fall within a pass-band for optimal analysis. The computer system then characterizes metabolites by comparing acquired signal evolutions to simulated MRF signals using template matching. This process selects matching values from the simulated data to identify the metabolites present. Finally, the system generates a report detailing the identified metabolites. This approach improves metabolite detection accuracy and specificity in MRI applications.
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May 8, 2017
December 3, 2019
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